Effects of Dolomitic Lime Pebbles

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Soil pH is an important soil characteristic to consider before planting a lawn or garden, as the acidity or alkalinity of soil affects the availability of nutrients in the soil to plants. One commercially available material that adjusts the pH of soil is pelletized dolomitic lime, which is made from finely ground natural limestone. For lime to be specifically classified as dolomitic lime, it must contain a certain percentage of magnesium.

Basics of Dolomitic Liming

Dolomitic lime is added to soil to raise its pH, making it less acidic. When lime is added to the soil, reactions occur that change some of the hydrogen contributing to the soil's acidity to water. Dolomitic lime reacts relatively slowly, so it must be worked into the soil at least two or three months before planting for the vegetation to benefit from its impact. Dolomitic lime also adds magnesium to the soil. Magnesium is at the core of chlorophyll, so if magnesium is not available in sufficient quantities, plant growth is poor and stunted. Pelletized dolomitic lime is best applied only when a soil test indicates that the pH is too low for good vegetation growth in the site. Broadcast the material at a rate of 2 to 3 pounds per 100 square feet of soil surface, incorporating the lime into the top 6 inches of soil and watering the soil.